Slips, trips and falls into the water are a common occurrence. In fact, accidental falls into water are a leading cause of drowning in Australia.
Slippery surfaces can catch anyone off guard, particularly at an inland waterway or coastal location. Here’s how: hikers or walkers will often slip on wet surfaces, waves will knock people out of their boats or people become distracted and aren’t watching where they are walking!
All of these can happen to anyone, so follow our tips to stay safe around slippery surfaces:
Read the signs:
Don’t ignore the obvious - take caution when walking and read the signs. Whether the sign recommends staying away from the edge, taking caution in the wet or wearing appropriate footwear – your best bet is to do as it says!
Wear a lifejacket:
Lifejackets should always be worn when on a boat. They serve to safeguard you from falling into the water and they never ruined a day on the water!
Stay within arm’s reach:
Always stay close to children or those around you, and never leave anyone alone when walking or hiking in remote areas. This means you’re there to catch someone before they fall, let them know of a slippery or loose surface and help them if they do fall in.
Take it slow:
'Slippery when wet' doesn’t just apply to roads; all surfaces become much more slippery when wet. So, take it slow, don’t run on wet surfaces and dry yourself off as much as possible after swimming to avoid surfaces becoming wetter.
Accidental falls into water accounted for 15% of all drowning deaths in Australia in 2020. Remember, injury or drowning doesn’t always happen to those who planned to enter the water. Keep yourself safe from slippery surfaces by following our tips and looking out for yourself and those around you!
For more information about staying safe when out and about click the link below.
